Hail vs. Wind Damage on Asphalt Shingles: Eastern Idaho Quick Guide
Not sure if a recent storm left hail or wind damage on your roof?
Use this quick visual guide for Idaho Falls, Rigby, and Rexburg homeowners.
From the ground with binoculars, you can spot key signs and decide when to call a pro.
At a glance
- Hail: random circular divots, crushed granules, soft or bruised shingle mats.
- Wind: lifted or creased shingle tabs, missing shingles, bent or displaced flashing.
- Check safely: walk the perimeter, stay off the roof, document with photos, and look for granules at downspouts.
- Next step: if multiple slopes show issues, schedule a professional inspection and documentation for insurance.
Quick comparison: what to look for
| Hail damage signs | Wind damage signs |
|---|---|
| Random round impact marks with crushed or missing granules | Tabs lifted or folded back, creases along the shingle lines |
| Soft spots or bruising when pressed, matte-looking areas | Missing shingles, exposed nails, disturbed ridge caps |
| Granule piles at gutter outlets after storms | Shingles flapping during wind, torn sealant strips |
| Indentations on metal flashings or soft metals | Bent drip edge, displaced flashing near chimneys or walls |
Safe at-home inspection steps
- Walk the perimeter. Use binoculars from the ground. Do not climb onto the roof.
- Photograph each slope. Take wide shots and close-ups of anything suspicious.
- Check gutters and downspouts. Look for fresh granule piles and dented metal.
- Look in the attic. Check for daylight at sheathing joints and damp insulation.
- Document the storm. Note the date, time, and wind or hail reports in your area if available.
- Call a professional. If you see creases, missing tabs, or widespread impacts, schedule an inspection.
When to call Idaho Roofing
In Idaho Falls, Rigby, Rexburg, and nearby towns, straight-line winds and fast-moving thunderstorms can damage multiple slopes in a few minutes.
If more than one face of the roof shows impacts or creasing, get a documented inspection before making an insurance claim.
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What to do first after a storm
- Take photos of the roof, gutters, siding, and yard. Include close-ups of shingles and any debris.
- Save receipts for temporary protection, such as tarps or emergency repairs.
- Do not pressure-wash the roof. Do not scrape impacts or chip ice.
- Contact a licensed roofing contractor to create a written inspection report with photos.
Proudly serving Eastern Idaho
We inspect and repair asphalt shingle roofs across Idaho Falls, Rigby, Rexburg, and surrounding communities.
Our team provides clear documentation that you can share with your insurer, plus repair or replacement options that fit local weather conditions.
FAQs
Can hail damage be hard to see?
Yes. Hail can bruise the shingle mat without obvious granule loss at first. If you suspect damage, have a professional check multiple slopes and soft metals for impact marks.
What if I only see granules in the gutters?
Some granule loss is normal over time, but fresh piles after a storm indicate impacts or accelerated wear. Ask for an inspection to confirm the source.
Should I call insurance or a roofer first?
Start with a roofer. A documented inspection helps you understand the scope and whether a claim is appropriate. If you file a claim, share the report and photos with your adjuster.
Is a small repair OK after wind damage?
Yes, if the roof is otherwise healthy. Isolated lifted or missing tabs can often be repaired. Widespread creasing or aging across several slopes usually points to replacement.